Indigenous people around the country celebrated and acknowledged the land on Oct. 13 for Indigenous Peoples’ Day. In 2021, an official proclamation to commemorate the second Monday in October as Indigenous Peoples’ Day was issued by then-President Joe Biden.

In Arizona, starting off the day strong, Matriarch Ways celebrated by organizing an Indigenous Peoples’ Day event at The Post in downtown Mesa. The event included Indigenous guest speakers, a panel, vendors and Indigenous performers such as Yavapai-Apache hip-hop artist Ash Da Hunter. 

Matriarch Ways focuses on restoration and strengthening of Indigenous communities. It is working toward restoring balance and reclaiming power within Indigenous communities to align with the natural balance.

Other events throughout the Valley included the “Rise and Thrive” Indigenous Peoples’ Day Nite Market hosted by Cahokia PHX. The night included 50-plus vendors and performances from Dirt Rhodes, One Way Sky and many more. The event also included a run to promote Indigenous resilience on O’odham land.

A family day took place at S’edav Va’aki Museum (formerly Pueblo Grande Museum. The day included crafts and honoring Hohokam history. 

At the Heard Museum, you could find yourself at a dance party. Dancing at the Heard included a mix of traditional dancing, rock, pop and country. 

Arizona Gov. Katie Hobbs shared through a social media post, “Indigenous Peoples’ Day is a reminder of Arizona’s deep Native roots and our responsibility to honor tribal sovereignty, protect sacred lands, and build a future grounded in respect and collaboration.”